Why in news?
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas amended the Aviation Turbine Fuel (Regulation of Marketing) Order, 2001 to include blends of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) with conventional jet fuel. Notified on 17 April 2026, this administrative change clarifies that aviation turbine fuel now encompasses synthetic hydrocarbons that meet Indian and international standards. The move aligns India’s aviation sector with global sustainability goals.
Background
Sustainable aviation fuel is a liquid fuel made from renewable or waste materials. Unlike conventional jet fuel derived from fossil crude oil, SAF can be produced from used cooking oils, agricultural and municipal waste, algae, non‑food crops or captured carbon. When blended with conventional fuel, SAF reduces net greenhouse‑gas emissions by up to 80 percent over its life cycle because it recycles existing carbon rather than releasing new fossil carbon. The fuel must meet stringent standards set by the ASTM and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to ensure it is safe and compatible with existing aircraft and infrastructure.
Key points of the amendment
- Expanded definition: Aviation turbine fuel now includes any blend of hydrocarbons produced from both fossil and non‑fossil sources that conform to BIS specification IS 17081. This legal clarity allows suppliers to market SAF blends without separate licences.
- Enforcement provisions: The amendment introduces updated provisions for sampling and inspecting aviation fuel to verify compliance with quality standards. It also repeals a 2005 clause that had prescribed punitive actions for adulteration.
- National blending targets: India aims to begin with a 1 percent SAF blend in 2027, increasing to 2 percent in 2028 and 5 percent by 2030. These targets mirror international trends; the European Union mandates a 2 percent SAF blend by 2025 and the United States is pursuing tax incentives for SAF production.
Why SAF is important
- Decarbonising aviation: Aviation accounts for about 2–3 percent of global CO2 emissions. Electric planes remain far from commercial viability for long‑haul flights, so using SAF is currently the most practical way to cut emissions.
- Domestic industry opportunities: India imports most of its jet fuel. Developing SAF production can reduce import dependence, create green jobs and add value to waste materials.
- Alignment with global markets: As international airlines adopt SAF mandates, Indian carriers need to ensure access to compliant fuel. Harmonising regulations will facilitate trade and travel.
Source: PIB
